DJ & Big D Updates

Well, things are rolling along for me. I picked up Friday night DJing out at the pub, so that would be 2 nights a week right now, and the pay is more than I make working at BB part-time, so I may have to think about letting my manager there know that I'll be leaving soon. He already knows I am planning on quitting in April, but looks like I may have to leave a little earlier if Friday becomes a permanent gig for me. Sorry, two nights DJ'ing brings me more money than working 3-4 nights at BB, and I only work 4-5 hours a night instead of 6-7. It's a no brainer, and I really love it. I'll just miss the free movies!! hahaha!

I dropped off a check to my laywer this afternoon. He said that he will try to have the complaint drawn up by next Friday, and the date Ry signs it will be the start of the 90 days, so it's just a waiting game until then May. At 90 days, we both sign off on the divorce, and it's final. At that time, I will sign off on the deed as well. His secretary is out in the hospital, but he said since it's so cut and dry, he should have them ready for me. He'll also have the documents ready next Friday for me to sign, as well as notarized letters for me to go back to my maiden name. I hadn't really thought about changing my last name, but I guess if I'm to put all this behind me, keeping his name just seems silly.

I hit the gym last week and this week, as I really need to get these last 10-15 lbs off and tone up. I just want to look and feel by best, and there's nothing wrong with that. They have a hip hop class that I want to try out. Anything with dance moves incorporated is right up my alley. Besides, all the dancing I do behind the DJ booth helps me on the weekends!! LOL. I have a sore throat and a bit of congestion today, but all in all, I've really been feeling great. I'm sure it's because of someone special in my life, but I'll save all that for another post! *smiles*

Happy Hump Day Everyone!!

Romantical Schtuffs

"Find a guy who calls you beautiful instead of hot, who calls you back when you hang up on him, who will lie under the stars and listen to your heartbeat, or will stay awake just to watch you sleep... wait for the boy who kisses your forehead, who wants to show you off to the world when you are in sweats, who holds your hand in front of his friends, who thinks you' re just as pretty without makeup on. One who is constantly reminding you of how much he cares and how lucky he is to have YOU... The one who turns to his friends and says, "thats her".... "

Moving Forward...

It's a new day and a new chance to shine. Today was my consultation with my lawyer about my divorce, and I'm just feeling very positive, and hoping that everything will go smoothly. With a no fault, no contest divorce, it could be done and over with in 90 days. There's really nothing to "divide up" or split, so I just want my things and want to move on with my life. I have so many options ahead of me with job prospects, that I most likely won't be staying in Pennsylvania. Options include moving back home, moving up to Wisconsin, or even moving to Springfield, IL where there are opportunities at my company's home office.

People change, and I don't hate my husband at all. I wish him well, and would love nothing more to see him move on and do good for himself. Maybe find someone and have a family one day. I don't think ill of him, and I would hope after the initial anger and reaction, he will come to realize that I'm a genuine person that cares about the people in my life, him included. Just because you love someone doesn't mean it was "meant to be". I know some feel I should be spiteful and angry over certain things, but at the end of the day, it does my heart and soul no good to dwell on them.

My friends and family have been overly supportive and for that I thank them. The "Big D", as they refer to it as, is never easy, and makes us question so many things about ourselves. Our morals, character, convictions, personality, views, etc. If anything, I will move forward and make the most of whatever I do, or whoever I eventually decide to get involved with. I love life in that sense. You can CHOOSE to make a different life for yourself, and that's exactly what I'm doing.

By no means do I mean to "dump" anything on my friends and family, but between work, and all the things going on right now, I just wanted to apologize to all my online friends, who I felt I've abandoned by not keeping up with them. Time hasn't been my friend this month at ALL!! LOL. At the same time, a lot have asked what was going on, so there it is. Working both jobs, trying to make it to the gym, going out with friends, and now my premanent Karaoke/DJ gig on Saturday nights, life's been just a crazy high speed rollercoaster! But what a ride!!!

Be safe, be well, and be good to each other! *hugs*

Been a while...

Hello my fellow bloggers and friends!! It's been a while since I've had the opportunity to sit down and get a blog in. Life had been hectic, but I'm loving the ride!! Things have been going well this new year so far. I'm down another 5 lbs in this new year (woohoo!), which is awesome, but I still have to start getting my "fitness on" and rebuild up my stamina and tone things up. Both my full and part time jobs are going great, and I finally have a set gig DJ'ing on Saturday nights with The Underground at a local pub. This past Saturday was the first night, and I had a blast! Of course, doing the "Cupid Shuffle" (the RIGHT way) is a short little workout in itself.. LOL. Sorry all you Altoonians, it's a shuffle, not a slide. One day you'll learn to do it the right way.. LOL

Of course, the 9th season of The Biggest Loser is on, and this year has so far definitely topped out other seasons in regards to the contesants. True they are in a controlled environment, but their stories are inspiring none the less.

Some movies that I've seen recently that I highly recommend are The Hurt Locker and District 9. Both were movies I had really no interest in seeing when they first came about, but I was talked into watching them, and I'm definitely glad I did. I'm not really into war type movies, but when the stories are centralized on certain characters, they definitely have an impact.

I've been trying to catch up on blogs, so hopefully I can do that here in a bit. I was reading one blog today on HealthMad called Are Your Plans for Losing Weight Too Complicated?. Kristie Leong MD makes a lot of great points on how some of overcomplicate the process of losing weight, and we end up getting so frustrated we just give up! It's all about finding a balance and what works for us. There are so many types of diets and eating plans, and workout tips and classes, we all have to find what works for us. What there is out there that we can easily fit into our already busy lives, and grow on. Making decisions that turn into choices that turn into habits! That's what it's all about ladies and gentleman. Turning a healthy active lifestyle into a HABIT!

Well, that's all for now. Lots coming up in the next few months, so I'll try to keep in touch! Amazing how things can happen when you set your mind to them. Keep positive and happy Monday! Have a great week my lovelies!! *hugs*

REMEMBERING MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

So much to update!!

Well, hello my lovelies! It's been quite a while since I blogged, but a friend of mine scolded me telling me he had nothing to read while bored at work, so I had to get one up here! LOL Well here goes!

The holidays were spent out at my parents in Minooka, IL. It was an amazing time with my son, Liam, and with the rest of my family. It was great seeing my nephew, Jacob as well, since he's now 1 year old, and can actually open the gifts, and say "OOOOOOO" when he saw his gifts. It was too cute! I actually got to do a little visiting this time around, and see some old pals from my teen years, that I haven't seen in 20 years. To Chrissy, Dave & Rob, it was totally great seeing you! Also stopped by my Aunt & cousins place, and spent some time with them. I squeezed in time with Wendy, John and Louie too! I always joke that next time I'm not telling my parents I'm coming to Illinois, because they totally plan out my entire stay! Gotta love them.

New Years Eve was low key per usual. I'm not big on "going out" on that night, because it's not me I'm worried about, it's all the other drunks out there. I sat and watched movies, Dick Clark, and toasted the new year with Welch's Sparkling White Grape Juice. I'm a rebel, I know.. LOL.

Of course, as many of you already know The Biggest Loser Season 9 started last night. All I have to say is WWWWWWWOW!! True, this show is extreme, and true they are in a controlled environment, but it just goes to show that it IS possible to exercise and MOVE, no matter what your size. The biggest guy so far on the show.. 526 lbs. He lost 34 lbs. Just incredible!

That's all for updates. Short, but sweet. (Happy Tommy?? lol) I'm sure once things get calmed down, I'll find the time to blog more, and I plan on getting to everyone's blogs next week, and playing "catch up" with all of you. Being my first week back after being gone, I just haven't had the time. Hope you all had a great holiday, and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Happy Holidays

I've been crazy busy, and once I get a break, I'll be sure to stop by and catch up on everyone's blogs. I wanted to wish everyone a wonderful holiday. Make sure to reach out and make that call, or send that email to someone you haven't talked to in a while. Let them know they are loved and thought about. Tis the season.

May the joy of this holiday season be with you year round! See you in the new year!!

Planks for the Memories!!

Abdominal muscles are the key and core muscles of the body. Those of you ladies that have had a C-section, or anyone who's had any type of surgery where the abdominal muscles where gone through realize how important those muscles are. Their strength affects every movement, turn, adjustment we make, so it's in our best interest to keep those muscles strong. Even if you don't have a six pack, these plank exercises are a great way to get started on keeping that core strong!! Of course, these exercises are from my girl Jillian!!

Get Killer Abs - Jillian Michaels

Everybody wants defined abs. Good thing there are so many different abdominal exercises to choose from — you'll never get bored as you work your way toward washboard abs!

Here are three versions of the plank, a move that works the lower back, chest, and shoulders in addition to the rectus abdominis.

Basic Plank
(beginner)
Start in a push-up position, but keep your hands directly under your shoulders instead of outside your chest. Legs are extended straight behind you, with feet together. You are balancing on your palms and the balls of your feet. Hold this position for as long as you can, working your way up to 1 minute. It's a lot harder than it sounds!

Plank Twists
(intermediate)
Start in plank position. Maintaining this position, exhale and rotate your torso by bringing your right knee in toward your left armpit. Return to the starting position, then repeat, bringing the left knee toward the right armpit. Plank twists work not only the rectus abdominis but also the internal obliques.

Extended Plank
(advanced)
Start in a basic plank position, but instead of placing your hands under your shoulders, bring your hands together and place them on the floor in front of you (about 3 inches in front of your head). This variation places much greater emphasis and concentration on the rectus abdominis because you're not able to use your arms as pillars to support your body weight.

JILLIAN'S TIP OF THE DAY
A Note on Form

Before trying any type of plank exercise, review these tips on performance:
- Be sure to focus on keeping your spine neutral (straight).
- Keep your eyes focused on the ground in front of you.
- Don't arch your back. Imagine that you are pulling your belly button up toward the ceiling.
- Until you've mastered them, do these exercises in front of a mirror to check your form. You don't have to watch yourself the entire time — just check in, particularly toward the end of the interval or set, when your muscles start to fatigue.

Biggest Loser Finale & Trainer Kim

Well, Danny did it. Start out at 430 lbs and ended at 191 lbs!!! What an inspiration!! And how about Shay? Subway is going to pay her $10K for every pound she loses by next season finale!! Now there's a paycheck!! Heck, I'd settle for $10 a lb I had to lose!! LOL. It was a great season, and they look absolutely amazing, and so energized and focused. Next couples season starts January 5th, so you know I'll be there!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH DANNY WIN!!

On another Biggest Loser note, I came across an interview with trainer, Kim Lyons. Remember her? She replaced Jillian for a bit on the show. Check out the positive things she's doing for the diabetic community with her workouts and educational approach to fitness. Click her picture to check out Fit Bottom Girl's interview with Kim.



Have a great day folks!!!

Our Stories...

There are so many blogs out there, and I'm inspired daily by these women (and men) that blog about their personal struggles and about their successes. One blogger caught my eye today, and I wanted to share her blog link and story with you.

Her name is Michelle and her blog is called The Garlic Chronicles. I would love for those that read mine, whether you comment here or not, to go check her out, and give her all the love and support you can.

Michelle, you're a beautiful, inspiring woman, and there are those that are out here in cyberspace that support you and cheer for you!

Have a super Monday everyone!!!

A Busy Holiday

Liam left at 8am this morning to head back to Chicago with my parents and Hannah. What a great fun filled holiday weekend! There are so many things to be thankful for in my life that I cannot even get it all down in one journal entry. Liam got in Thanksgiving Day, and OMG is he TALL!!! LOL. He can almost look at me eye to eye, and the kid is in a size 9-10 men's shoe! Guess I'll have to stick to borrowing his clothes, because I haven't been able to fit in his shoes since last year when he was a men's 6-7.. lol. Hannah is growing as well, and it's just insane how quickly time passes us.

Dinner at the Ramada was just unbelievable. Every meat, fish, side dish and dessert imaginable. The food was incredible, and we left there all at least a pant size bigger. We walked around the hotel to look at all the mini trees the different local area companies decorated for Toys For Tots, and then in their courtyard was the biggest decorated tree I've personally ever seen!! Sure I've seen them on tv, but this was HUGE. It was donated from a local family farm. I barely got a picture of it!!



We headed back to the house for some Guitar Hero competition, and then my parents and Hannah left because Ry and Crusher were heading to bed, both having to get up for work btwn 1-3am. Sucks I know. After they went to bed Liam and I headed out to grab some stuff and went out to BB and rented some movies. I ended up crashing out because it had been a long day. Moreso for him and my family due to the 10 hr drive from Chicago.

My parents woke up Black Friday and headed to a few stores. I heard the lines for Best Buy, Kohl's and Toys R Us were insane. I'm not a Black Friday shopper, and usually do everything online, since it's the same deals, and free shipping.. lol. They came to the house and we headed out to Tyrone to Gardner's Candies to check out the Candy Museum and Ice Cream Shoppe. I just bought a little piece of almond bark, but Liam, Hannah and my Dad got these HUGE ice cream cones.




My mom had to get some stamps, so we took a stroll through Tyrone down to the post office, so they could eat their ice cream, and she could get her stamps. We then headed back to the house, and played a card/chip game called "Sequence" that my parents brought with them. I baked some lasagna and made a simple romaine salad, and then we bundled up and headed to downtown Hollidaysburg for their "Light Up Night".

It was cold and windy, but we had fun. We browsed through the local stores, moreso to keep warm than to shop.. hahaha. They had a man doing ice sculptures with a chainsaw. The kids saw Santa, and they had a petting farm. We headed over to check out the soup tasting contest, where the local restaurants competed for the best soup. Each line had about 50 people waiting so we just grabbed a few goodies and hot cocoa. They had bands there playing seasonal tunes, but the best was the Junior High School that have a percussion group called "Can It". With overturned plastic blue bins and old metal garbage cans, these kids rocked! The beats were contagious, and we danced to the drums as they did thei drumming, along with choreographed moves. They were unbelievable!! So talented! I was bummed because my camera battery went dead, and didn't get a very good picture of them, or later for the lighting of the tree. The kids got wacky balloon hats and after the towns tree and streets were lit up, we headed back home to relax. The kids watched Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs, and Liam passed out. My parents and Hannah said their good nights.



Saturday morning I made a huge breakfast for everyone... eggs, bacon, hashbrowns, toast, pancakes, the works. We then got ready and headed out to the Slinky Action zone to meet up with Ry's nephew Aidan and they had a blast running around, playing games, winning tickets, and they went on the bumper cars. I took the kids over for cake, ice cream and presents for Aidan's birthday, and my parents took that time to relax and do whatever they wanted, just the two of them. We then went and took Ry's mom with all of us to Lakemont Park for "Holiday Lights on the Lake". You drive through the park and all the local businesses have lighting displays. They were really nice. Lived here 9 years and never went through it. Leave it to my parents for getting my butt out there.. lol.



We headed back for some homemade chili and pumpkin pie that Ry made and the kids watched a movie while I uploaded the pictures from the weekend, and the parents bs'ed in the kitchen. We said our good nights, and I curled up with Liam on the couch. My dad picked him up this morning and it's been a very quiet day since then. I miss all the activity, giggles, running around and smiles.

I have a great family and feel very blessed. I'll see them all again come Christmas time when I head out to Chicago. Now it's time to go relax in a big bubble bath, and then get ready for work. Back to the grind tonight. Hope you all had a wonderful holiday with family and friends.